Course Objectives

This course studies films of the French New Wave—their technical
innovations, stylistic traits, and important directors. We will first study
a few influential films, writings, and directors that pre-dated and inspired
the French New Wave. We will then study the formal elements, themes, and
experimental techniques of the French New Wave, paying special attention to
how various filmmakers have employed them toward different effects. We will
then consider a few more recent films that continue the French New Wave
tradition.

Course Format

Our class will cover one or more films per week. Generally we'll have an
introductory lecture and/or presentation on Tuesdays,
which will be followed by a film screening. On Thursdays we'll
discuss both the film and assigned readings. Readings throughout the semester
will include historical texts and theoretical criticism, as well as some directors’
writings.

You will be responsible for lively class discussions and class group
presentations on our directors, films, and readings. You will also contribute
thoughtful short reviews on our films; solid writing skills and a thorough command of the film terminology you learned in CMS
2100 are expected in all of your writing and discussion.

Film Screenings

Please note that the film screenings are mandatory, as this
material will be the subject matter of your weekly writing assignments. If you do not plan to attend the screenings, you
should drop the course. We will view additional excerpts from selected films
during class lectures.

Always arrive five minutes early to screenings and to class lectures, not
only because we will start promptly but also because late arrivals are
extremely disruptive. If you must arrive late, always use the back door
to enter the room. Do not eat loud foods, answer cell phones, talk with
classmates, or leave the room during screenings; these are a time for serious
study of our film texts so you should be taking copious notes during each film
to prepare for your journal entries, quizzes, class discussions, and exams. You may wish to
bring a penlight to classes and screenings to help you take notes in the dark.
Anyone behaving disruptively during a screening or class will be asked to
leave.

Note: Many of the films in this series contain violence, profanity, drug
usage, and/or frank sexual content. These films are intended for mature
audiences and are not suitable for children under 17 who are unaccompanied by an
adult. If you are disturbed by R-rated film content, you should drop the course.

Required Texts (Available at the campus bookstore
or online vendors)

1. Marie, Michel. The French New Wave: An Artistic
School. Blackwell, 1997. (FNW)

2. Neupert, Richard. The History of the French New
Wave. Wisconsin, 2004. (HFNW)

Course textbooks & most films should be available in the collection of
the library soon.

Note: If you have added this course during the schedule change
period and/or were not present for the syllabus review the first day of class,
you are required to meet with me the following week to review course
requirements and policies.